This creamy garlic butter salmon is a treat for your taste buds! With juicy salmon fillets cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce, it’s both fancy and easy.
I love serving this with a side of rice or veggies for a complete meal. It feels like a restaurant dish, but I can whip it up at home. Enjoy the deliciousness! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are the stars of this dish! You can also use trout or even chicken if you prefer. For a budget-friendly option, go for frozen salmon, just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking.
Butter: Unsalted butter is used for better control of the saltiness. If you’re dairy-free, use vegan butter or olive oil instead. It’s still rich in flavor and works well in this recipe!
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, substituting half-and-half can work, but the sauce might not be as thick. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, coconut cream can add a lovely richness!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds depth to the sauce. However, you can replace it with nutritional yeast for a vegan choice or any hard cheese you enjoy like Pecorino Romano.
How Do I Sear Salmon to Perfection?
Searing salmon can seem tricky, but with a few tips, you’ll nail it every time! You want that delicious golden crust that locks in moisture.
- Start with a dry fish: Pat the salmon dry with paper towels to prevent steaming and to help it brown.
- Medium to high heat: Make sure the skillet is hot before adding the salmon. It should sizzle when the fish hits the pan!
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook in batches if necessary. Too many fillets can lower the pan’s temperature and lead to uneven cooking.
- Timing: Cook time varies, but generally, 4-5 minutes per side will do the trick. Look for a beautiful golden color.
Following these tips ensures you get that perfect sear on your salmon every time!
How to Make Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin removed or left on as preferred
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 5-6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Lemon wedges, for serving
- Cooked white rice or your choice of side (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15 minutes to cook, making a total of about 25 minutes from start to finish. Quick enough for a weeknight dinner, yet impressive enough for guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salmon:
First, pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This helps ensure they sear nicely. Now, season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using). This will add great flavor!
2. Sear the Salmon:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the salmon fillets to the skillet, skin side down (if applicable). Sear for about 4-5 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Gently flip the salmon and cook for another 4-5 minutes on the other side. When done, remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute or until fragrant. Make sure to stir often so the garlic doesn’t burn!
4. Add Broth and Cream:
Pour in the chicken broth and scrape the bottom of the skillet with a wooden spoon to deglaze, lifting all the tasty, browned bits. Next, stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly. If it looks too thick, you can add a splash more broth or cream!
5. Finish the Dish:
Add the fresh lemon juice to the sauce and adjust the seasoning with extra salt and pepper, if needed. Now, return the salmon fillets to the skillet and use a spoon to drizzle some of that creamy sauce over the top. Let everything warm through for an additional 1-2 minutes.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for color, and serve with cooked rice or your side of choice. Don’t forget those lemon wedges for an extra burst of freshness! Enjoy your creamy garlic butter salmon right away while it’s warm and luscious!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the salmon properly before cooking. You can thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or place it in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water for quicker thawing. Pat it dry before seasoning for the best results!
Can I Substitute Heavy Cream?
Yes, if you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half can work well, though it may not thicken as much. For a dairy-free alternative, coconut cream provides a rich and creamy texture while adding a unique flavor!
What Should I Serve with This Salmon?
This salmon pairs beautifully with a variety of sides! You can serve it over rice, pasta, or quinoa. Steamed vegetables, roasted asparagus, or a fresh salad are also great choices to complement the creamy sauce.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream if needed to keep the sauce creamy. Enjoy it again as a delicious meal!
